Fast RFID access, quiet drawer, and a stealthy clock design make it shine.
Imagine waking at 2 a.m. to a bump in the night. Your heart races. You want quick, safe access without fumbling for keys or codes, and without waking the house. That’s the gap this nightstand safe aims to fill. It blends into a bedroom as a clock, adds phone-charging ports, and opens fast with RFID. In this review, I share what worked, what didn’t, and whether it’s the right fit for your home setup.
Is Hornady Rapid Safe Night Guard Good?
Short answer: yes, for quick-access nightstand use, it’s a top pick. It’s ideal for people who want fast, low-light access with a discreet look that doesn’t scream “gun safe.” If you need a heavy, high-capacity safe, this isn’t it. But for bedside readiness with layered entry methods, it delivers.
In my home, I set it on a nightstand and used the included security cable. The RFID wristband opened the drawer faster than I expected, even when I was half-asleep. Another time, I tried the keypad after a long day. The buttons were easy to find by feel, and the drawer slid out smoothly without a loud clank. For a simple, secure routine, it worked like a trusty seatbelt—there when you need it, out of sight when you don’t.
My First Impression
The packaging felt sturdy and well-protected, with foam that kept the safe snug. Pulling it out, the safe looked like a sleek alarm clock, not a steel box. The finish was clean, and the clock display was bright but not harsh. The drawer felt tight with no wobble, which boosted my confidence right away.
Setup was easy. I plugged it in, added batteries for backup, and programmed the RFID tags in minutes. The drawer action was smooth and quiet—exactly what I wanted for late-night access. I tested the RFID card first, and the speed surprised me. I felt relieved that the promise of quick entry wasn’t just marketing—this thing is fast.
What Makes It Stand Out / Key Features
- RFID quick-access entry with multiple tags (fast, reliable, and intuitive)
- Disguised as a bedside clock for discreet, low-profile placement
- USB charging ports to power your phone and devices overnight
- Multiple entry methods: RFID, keypad, and backup key for redundancy
- Spring-assisted, quiet drawer with interior light for low-light use
- AC power with battery backup to keep access working during outages
- Includes a security cable to tether the safe to furniture
What I Like
- Opening speed with RFID is impressive in the dark
- Looks like a normal clock, which adds privacy and deterrence
- Quiet drawer and interior light help with late-night access
- USB ports reduce cable clutter on the nightstand
- Redundant entry methods give peace of mind
- Solid build and tidy fit of the drawer inspire confidence
What Could Be Better
- Not designed for larger pistols with tall optics or light/laser combos
- Heavier, bolt-down safes offer more theft resistance
- Clock brightness may need tweaking for very light-sensitive sleepers
My Recommendation
If you want bedside speed, discreet style, and simple daily use, this safe is a smart choice. It’s best for people who prioritize rapid, reliable access with low noise and minimal clutter. If your priority is heavy, long-term theft resistance or large-capacity storage, consider a different class of safe. For a nightstand, the Hornady rapid safe night guard review points to a well-balanced pick with everyday convenience.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Nightstand quick access | Fast RFID entry and quiet drawer with light |
| Discreet bedroom setups | Clock-style front hides in plain sight |
| Power outage readiness | AC power with battery backup keeps it working |
Alternative Products You Can Consider
VAULTEK VT20i Biometric Handgun Safe — Great for users who prefer fingerprint entry and a robust app. It’s portable and has strong interior lighting. Compared to the Hornady, it trades the clock disguise for a sleek tech look and adds smart features.
Fort Knox PB1 Original Pistol Safe — Built like a tank with a simplex mechanical lock. No batteries, no electronics, very solid steel. It’s slower than RFID and not as discreet, but it’s a great choice if you want a heavy-duty, no-frills lockbox.
RPNB Mounted Gun Safe (Biometric/Keypad) — Ideal for mounting in tight spots like under a nightstand or desk. It offers rapid access and a slim footprint. It’s more mount-focused than the Hornady and lacks the clock and USB perks.
| Product | Best For | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Hornady Rapid Safe Night Guard | Discreet bedside quick access | Clock disguise, RFID speed, USB ports |
| VAULTEK VT20i | Biometric and app control | Fingerprint + smart features, no clock face |
| Fort Knox PB1 | Maximum ruggedness | Heavy steel, mechanical lock, slower access |
| RPNB Mounted Safe | Under-desk or side-mount | Slim design, mount-first approach |
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
If you want a discreet, quick-access nightstand safe with fast RFID, a quiet drawer, and extra convenience like USB ports, the Hornady Rapid Safe Night Guard is the standout. It blends in, opens fast, and keeps your routine simple. For a bedroom, those strengths are hard to beat.
If you crave biometric and app control, the VAULTEK VT20i is a better fit. If you want heavy steel and a mechanical lock, go Fort Knox PB1. If you need a slim, mountable design, try the RPNB. Match the safe to your setting and your speed needs, and you’ll be happy with the choice.
FAQs Of Hornady rapid safe night guard review
Does the RFID work through the top or sides?
Yes, the RFID reader works through the designated scan area, which is quick to find by feel in the dark.
Will my pistol with a red dot fit?
Most compact and many full-size pistols fit. Very tall optics or large light/laser setups may be tight.
Can I use it during a power outage?
Yes. It runs on AC power and has a battery backup to keep the safe opening when the power is out.
Is the drawer loud when opening?
No. The action is smooth and quiet, and there’s an interior light to help you see without noise or fuss.
Can I secure it without drilling?
Yes. Use the included security cable to tether it to sturdy furniture if you can’t or don’t want to bolt it down.
